On International Youth Day, UN Secretary General warns of creating a ‘lost generation’
August 11, 2012: Ahead of the International Youth Day, and amidst an economic crisis
which has affected young people the most, United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon
has called for greater and more meaningful inclusion of youth into decision-making
processes around the world, while also warning of a possible “lost generation” if
urgent measures are not put in place. “Today's generation of youth – the largest
the world has ever known, and the vast majority of whom live in developing countries
– has unprecedented potential to advance the well-being of the entire human family,”
Mr. Ban said in a message for the Day, which falls on 12 August. The theme of this
year’s International Youth Day is ‘Building a Better World: Partnering with Youth,’
aimed at developing and engaging in partnerships with and for youth. “The global
economic crisis has hit youth the hardest, and many are understandably discouraged
by rising inequalities. A large number have no immediate prospects and are disenfranchised
from the political, social and development processes in their countries,” UN Secretary
General added. “Without urgent measures, we risk creating a ‘lost generation’ of squandered
talent and dreams.” “On International Youth Day, I call on Governments, the private
sector, civil society and academia to open doors for young people and strengthen partnerships
with youth-led organizations,” Mr. Ban said. “Youth can determine whether this era
moves toward greater peril or more positive change. Let us support the young people
of our world so they grow into adults who raise yet more generations of productive
and powerful leaders.” In his message, the Secretary-General also noted that youth
are a “transformative force; they are creative, resourceful and enthusiastic agents
of change, be it in public squares or cyberspace.” “From their pivotal role in
efforts to achieve freedom, democracy and equality, to their global mobilization in
support of the UN Conference on Sustainable Development (Rio+20), youth have energetically
demonstrated yet again their capacity and desire to turn the tide of history and tackle
global challenges,” Mr. Ban said. “We need to establish more and stronger mechanisms
for youth participation. The time has come to integrate youth voices more meaningfully
into decision-making processes at all levels”, he added. Following a recommendation
from the World Conference of Ministers Responsible for Youth, the General Assembly
declared 9 August to be International Youth Day in 1999.